Geospatial technician
Geospatial technicians collect data to create maps, update satellite navigation systems and plan construction and conservation projects.
Typical Salary
£24,000 – £35,000
per year
Working Hours
37–40
hours per week
Day-to-day tasks
As a geospatial information systems (GIS) technician, you could:
- use specialist equipment to gather data, like advanced GPS, laser scanners and drones
- digitise and code visual information such as aerial photos, geological surveys and satellite imagery
- monitor changes to environments and the impacts of major events, such as flooding or wildfires
- maintain and analyse geographic data held in GIS databases
- provide organisations with technical reports, maps and 2D and 3D graphics to help with policy planning and decision making
Skills needed
- knowledge of geography
- analytical thinking skills
- maths knowledge
- complex problem-solving skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- design skills and knowledge
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- excellent verbal communication skills
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to get into this role
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- a graduate training scheme
- the armed forces
Career progression
With experience, you might specialise in areas of GIS mapping and data analysis, such as:
- agriculture
- mining
- urban planning
- transport infrastructure
- habitat conservation
- military intelligence
You could also become a GIS senior analyst, GIS engineer or GIS services manager.